Merritt is Mike & Brianna's daughter, and from her very first days of life, she has faced more than most ever should. What began with meconium aspiration at birth quickly led to pulmonary hypertension and an unexpected 11-day NICU stay. After just three weeks at home, Merritt suffered a seizure in Mike & Brianna's arms and became critically ill with sepsis and respiratory failure. Since then, Merritt has endured weeks in the PICU, multiple intubations, pneumonia and other respiratory infections, collapsed portions of her lungs, pulmonary hypertension, seizures, and a stroke. During this critical illness, she also developed severe kidney failure, became dependent on continuous dialysis, and later underwent surgery to place a peritoneal dialysis catheter.

Genetic testing has now revealed that Merritt has a rare WT1 gene mutation, known more commonly as Denys-Drash syndrome, an extraordinarily rare condition that causes severe, rapidly progressive kidney disease and carries an increased risk of childhood kidney cancer. Fewer than 500 WT1-related cases have been reported worldwide. The road ahead will likely include long-term dialysis, possible removal of her native kidneys, and ultimately a kidney transplant. Donations will help support Merritt's future medical expenses, travel, meals, living expenses, and will help us create a nonprofit in her honor to help others facing prolonged hospital stays at Arkansas Children's Hospital. Please help if you can. As Mike & Brianna's family holds tightly to the promise, “Do not fear, for I am with you.” Isaiah 41:10, they are leaning on hope and the kindness of others. Every prayer, share, and gift means so much.